|
It is a helpless feeling when a tragedy strikes either at home or in our communities. That is exactly the feeling many of us experienced last year when the unexplainable shooting occurred in Omaha at Von Maur. Questions and "what ifs" went through everyone's mind and were expressed in the media across the state. It is our natural reaction to do something, anything, to prevent such an occurrence in the future. By doing nothing we feel we are allowing such an action to repeat itself.
My mailbox is overflowing with contacts regarding LB 958, so named the Von Maur bill. LB 958 looks to put additional requirements on gun owners and tougher penalties on crimes committed with guns. The requirements include provisions that individuals must report a lost or stolen firearm to local law enforcement within 48 hours of discovery. The bill would also mandate that all firearms sold by retailers include a trigger or gun lock.
It is my understanding that, should this bill advance from the Judiciary Committee, there will be major changes made to it. Although Nebraska was faced with a significant tragedy, we must not have a knee-jerk reaction and enact ineffectual legislation in response. It is important to enact legislation that effectively responds to the problem at hand.
Significant issues existed in this young man's life that allowed him to have contact with Health and Human Services, and mental health services across the state. The state needs to respond by addressing the existing issues in obtaining mental health services and fully funding community based behavioral health reform. We also need to be looking at the root causes of these situations.
I will continue to monitor this legislation. I would like to restate that I do not support this legislation. I appreciate that so many of you have called to keep me up to date on your concerns with this bill. Please continue to contact me with other issues that come to your attention. It is through these communications that I can actively monitor the bills you care most about.
When contacting me by email please be sure to include your full name, address and a phone number.
Senator Annette Dubas
State Capitol
PO Box 94604
Lincoln, NE 68509-4604
adubas@leg.ne.gov
402.471.2630
www.annettedubas.com
Want to comment on this article?
Register on our forums and post your thoughts.
It's free and easy to do!
independentforums.com
|
